Research Help Guides
How can I find information about my topic?
Using your topic question, identify keywords or major concepts in your topic
Example (keywords):
Does sleep deprivation lead to an increased risk of heart disease in women?
You will use these keywords as your search terms when searching in online resources such as the Library Catalog and article databases.
- It is a good idea to think of synonyms, or related terms, for your concepts as well. For example, other possible search terms include "coronary artery disease," "sleep disorders," and "female."
- Test the main concepts or keywords in your topic by finding background information. Common sources of background information include:
- Encyclopedias - The library has several general and subject encyclopedias in the Reference Collection. The library has access to a several online encyclopedias, including the Britannica Concise Encyclopedia, through Xrefer Plus
- Dictionaries - Good sources for defining terminology. They can also be both general and specific. A general, online source is the Oxford English Dictionary.
- Finding too much information?
Narrow your topic by combining your search terms with and: sleep deprivation and heart disease and women, for example. - Finding too little information?
Broaden your topic by searching for related terms. For example, look for information on heart disease, rather than coronary artery disease. Link synonymous search terms with or: women or female.
Now let's learn about periodicals...
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